Mary Elizabeth Simms

A Life Well Lived

Mary Elizabeth Barnard

As we approach the Christmas season, a time of angels bending near the earth to touch their harps of gold, it seems fitting that our Angel has ascended to Heaven to rejoice with those she loves. Mary Elizabeth Barnard was born December 30, 1938 to a proud fisherman of a father and a soft hearted, kind mother, William Theodore and Sarah Elizabeth Backman Barnard. She joined a lively family of siblings, Dorothy, Bill, Virgil, and Gilbert. Having been born and raised in American Falls, Idaho, it is not surprising that she met a tall, handsome, country farm boy, Don Simms. He claims he saw her riding her bike in the 5th grade with long flowing hair and knew he loved her. Childhood sweethearts turned to young love, and Don married Mary on August 19, 1956. They lived out on Don’s family farm and welcomed two sweet children, Cindy and Terry.

Moving into town in 1960, Becky was born. Their travels took them many places as Don opened new areas for his company. Each new place brought a new baby. Brett was born in Bountiful, Utah, Christy was born in Sandy, Utah. Danny was born in Seattle, Washington. Missy in Billings, Montana and Mindy in Aberdeen, Idaho. She would later have 48 grandchildren and 74 great grandchildren whom she knew and loved.

Mary was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served in every imaginable calling, enjoying each one. The gospel was her focus and love. Serving came naturally to her and she would do it with a genuine smile and Christlike love. She was pleased to serve a mission with her companion, Don, in the Michigan, Detroit Mission where she grew to love the people and the area. She loved her weekly temple attendance. Her passions in life were her family and friends. She loved each one. Her hobbies were sewing, camping, genealogy, traveling, and reading. She passed away Sunday, December 7, 2025 in Pocatello, Idaho.

She is survived by her children Cindy (Nathaniel) Jarvis, Terrell (Renate) Simms, Rebecca (Kenneth) Pulliam, Brett (Tonya) Simms, Crystal (Adrian) Lear, Daniel Simms, Melissa (Scott) Macbeth, and Melinda (Brandon) Tuia, as well as her grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. There will be a viewing Thursday, December 11, from 6-8 pm at the LDS Church on Pocatello Avenue in American Falls, Idaho. There will be a viewing Friday morning from 9:30-10:30, a family prayer at 10:35, and funeral services at 11:00 at the same location. A graveside dedication will be following the service in the American Falls, Idaho Cemetery. We invite all to a luncheon at the church after the cemetery service. An Angel truly has been called home. What a wonderful family reunion she is having. Till we meet again.

Family and friends are invited to visit DavisRoseMortuary.com to order flowers, or to share condolences, memories, and photos.